Zwartkops Raceway near Pretoria will soon be home to a different kind of automotive sound as more than 2 000 classic and special-interest vehicle descend on the venue on August 04 for the 42nd edition of th Pretoria Old Motor Club ‘Cars in the Park’.
Frik Kraamwinkel, the chief organiser, comments: “With just over two months to go, preparations are in full swing for another spectacular event.”
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Hosted by the Pretoria Old Motor Club, the gathering will feature around 2 500 classic and special-interest vehicles, and is expected to draw more than 10 000 visitors. Special events celebrating milestones in the classic car world will be a highlight of this year's show.
A key attraction for 2024 will be the 60th anniversary of the Ford Mustang. Visitors can look forward to seeing a range of iconic Mustang models that have graced South African roads over the past six decades. The Mustang, first sold in the US in April 1964, became the fastest-selling new car in history and was introduced to South Africa as a left-hand-drive import.
Right-hand-drive models became available only 50 years later, fuelling a surge in popularity. Rare models, including Shelby versions from the late 1960s, are expected to be showcased.
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Other marques celebrating significant anniversaries include Porsche, marking 60 years of the 911 series. Originally introduced as the 901 in 1963 at the Frankfurt Motor Show, it was rebranded as the 911 in 1964. South African enthusiasts can anticipate a comprehensive display of classic 911 models.
Fiat will also be commemorating a milestone, celebrating 125 years since its founding in 1899. The Fiat club members are preparing to present some exceptional models from the brand's illustrious history.
In the pit area, under the stewardship of long-time Pretoria Old Motor Club member Emil Kuschke, there will be a special focus on pre-World War Two cars, showcasing models from the late 1930s and earlier. These vintage cars, with their characteristic rounded shapes, will offer a fascinating contrast to the modern supercars also on display.
The event will feature displays from some 100 car clubs, highlighting vehicles spanning from the 1920s to contemporary models. Kraamwinkel noted the enduring support from motor clubs, emphasising their importance to the classic car community.
Unique to Cars in the Park is the inclusion of individual classic car owners, who are invited to showcase vehicles more than 30 years old. These enthusiasts, along with a passenger, are granted free entry, resulting in an eclectic mix of meticulously restored and charmingly unrefined classics.
Regular attendees can expect to see newly discovered gems, often freshly unearthed from old barns or garages, making each year’s show unique. The event has grown into a delightful family day, with nearly 140 stalls offering a variety of goods, from full-sized cars to models, clothing, books, tools and novelties. Live music, children’s entertainment, and ample food and drink options will add to the festive atmosphere.
A special rally stage on the Zwartkops karting circuit will be among this year’s highlights. The gates at Zwartkops Raceway on the R55 route near Laudium will open at 6 am for classic cars, with a recommended arrival time by 8.30 am. General public gates will open at 8.30 am, with tickets available through iTickets at R120 for adults, while children under 12 enter for free. Adult tickets at the gate will be R140.
For further details, visit the Pretoria Old Motor Club’s website at http://www.pomccitp.co.za or their Facebook page for Cars in the Park.
Colin Windell
Proudly CHANGECARS
